When working with QuickBooks Desktop, you’ll often come across different types of files, each serving a specific purpose. From your main company’s file to backup and accountant review copies, every file extension plays a crucial role in managing and securing your accounting data.
In this article…
This guide breaks down the most common QuickBooks file types, formats, and extensions used in both Windows and Mac versions, so you always know what each file does and how to handle it safely.
QuickBooks File Types for Windows
Common QuickBooks Files
| File Extension | File Type | Description |
| .qbw | QuickBooks Company File | This is the primary file that stores your company’s data and accounts info. For example, if your company name is MyCompany, the file will be saved as MyCompany.qbw. |
| .qbb | QuickBooks Backup File | When you back up your company file, QuickBooks creates a .qbb file. You can use it to restore your data in case of file corruption or accidental loss. |
| .qbm | QuickBooks Portable File | A compressed version of your company file, usually used to email or transfer data easily. Saved as MyCompany.qbm. |
| .qbo | QuickBooks Bank Statement File | Used to import transactions directly from your bank into QuickBooks. Helpful for reconciling bank statements quickly. |
Additional QuickBooks Files
| File Extension | File Type | Description |
| .des | Layout Designer Template File | Stores customized form templates like invoices or sales receipts. Ideal for sharing design layouts across company files. |
| .qbr | Report Template File | Saves exported memorized reports for reuse or sharing. |
| .qwc | Web Connector File | Helps connect QuickBooks Desktop with third-party web apps via QuickBooks Web Connector. |
| qbstbl2.usa | US Tax Table File | Contains payroll tax data required to calculate accurate payroll. Used only if you process payroll in QuickBooks Desktop. |
Accountant Files
| File Extension | File Type | Description |
| .qbx | Accountant’s Review Copy | Created when you share a copy of your company file with your accountant for review. |
| .qba | Accountant’s Copy File | Generated when your accountant opens the .qbx file. They can review and make edits in this version. |
| .qby | Accountant’s Copy Import File | Once your accountant finalizes changes, they send you a .qby file to import those updates into your main company file. |
| .qbj | General Journal Entries File | Allows accountants to send journal entries for easy import into your books. |
Utility and Log Files
| File Extension | File Type | Description |
| .iif | Intuit Interchange Format File | Used for importing or exporting lists such as customers, vendors, or accounts. |
| .nd | Network Data File | Enables multi-user access by storing connection details. Essential for hosting environments. |
| .tlg | Transaction Log File | Tracks every change made since the last backup. Restarts after a new backup is created. |
| .log | Event Log File | Records key events or errors in QuickBooks. Examples include Qbwin.log (for rebuild issues) and QWC.log (for Web Connect errors). |
| .ecml | Entitlement File | Confirms product registration and licensing. QuickBooks uses this file to validate your license. |
| .qbp | Print Settings File | Saves your customized printer setup and preferences for invoices, forms, and reports. |
QuickBooks Statement Writer Files
| File Extension | File Type | Description |
| .qsm | Statement Data File | Stores data used in QuickBooks Statement Writer and can be opened in Excel. |
| .qss | Statement Settings File | Saves customized settings for reports and statements. |
| .qst | Statement Template File | Contains pre-designed layouts for specific financial statements. |
QuickBooks File Types for Mac
| File Extension | File Type | Description |
| .QB2016 | Company File (2016 Version) | The main company data file for QuickBooks Desktop for Mac 2016. |
| .QB2019 | Company File (2019 Version) | The company data file for QuickBooks Desktop for Mac 2019. |
| .MAC.QBB | Backup File | Used to move QuickBooks data between Mac and Windows versions of QuickBooks Desktop. |
| .DMG | Apple Disk Image File | Stores QuickBooks company backups as a disk image on Mac. |
| .plist | Apple Property List File | Stores registration and preference settings for QuickBooks on Mac. |
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Why It’s Important to Know Your File Types
Understanding the purpose of each QuickBooks file type helps you:
- Avoid data loss: Knowing which files store core company data versus backups ensures you back up the right files.
- Collaborate efficiently: Accountants and clients can easily share review copies, journal entries, and templates without confusion.
- Simplify troubleshooting: Log and utility files can help identify network, licensing, or printing issues quickly.
Each QuickBooks file extension has a unique purpose, from storing financial data to enabling accountant collaboration or maintaining system logs. Whether you’re using QuickBooks on Windows or Mac, managing these files properly ensures smoother operations and faster issue resolution.
If you’re tired of juggling local backups or troubleshooting file errors, consider hosting QuickBooks Desktop on the cloud.
With Ace Cloud Hosting, your QuickBooks company files, backups, and configurations stay secure, are automatically backed up, and are accessible anytime from any device. Start a 7-day free trial today!
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